The Debate Over Fossil Fuels

The use of fossil fuels has long been debated. In the U.S., some sectors are asking for its abolition owing to the pollution it brings. Fossil fuels include coal, natural gas and oil.

Coal is the most popular type of fossil fuel and the U.S. has 500 billion tons of coal reserves that’s estimated to last for up 240 years. Unfortunately, it releases hazardous chemicals such as carbon and sulful dioxide, nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide.

Subsidies for this fuel is also being hotly debated today. U.S. President Barrack Obama wants to stop the subsidy and instead calls for the use of clean energy technologies while Mitt Romney is in favor of developing fossil fuels. When it comes to nuclear energy, however, both are in the same boat.